The state of your cat’s skin and coat can give you a good idea of his or her general health.In terms of skin, supple and clear skin is healthy, while greasy, flaky and bumpy skin isworrisome. When it comes to the coat, a smooth and shiny coat is ideal, but a coarse,brittle coat usually needs attention.

Internally, it helps if your cat is healthy and well-nourished, since this contributes to thecoat’s texture and lustre. The outside, however, requires skin care and regular grooming toensure the coat is clean and tangle-free, whatever the coat’s characteristics are.

DIFFERENT CAT HAIR TYPES

Different hair types, with their different characteristics, need different care. After all, some cats are hairless (such as the Sphinx); others flaunt curly, minimally-shedding coats (for example Rex cats); smooth-coated Oriental breeds have sparse undercoats while short-haired domestic cats own a fine undercoat beneath a regular coat of guard hairs; and finally long-haired cats boast fine silky hair that, as you may guess, is tangle-prone.

Cats in cooler climates usually undergo two heavy seasonal shedding cycles (during whichthe undercoat falls out in clumps) each year. Cats that spend more time indoors tend toshed in low levels year-round.

HOW CAN NUTRITION CONTRIBUTE TO THE APPEARANCEOF A CAT’S SKIN AND HAIR?

Skin is the body’s largest organ with cells experiencing a rapid turnover. Basically most, if not all of your pet’s skin is covered with hair (unless it’s a Sphynx) whether it continues to grow or simply sheds. A balanced diet – which is essential for the skin and hair to stay healthy – and the right amount of calories (to satisfy energy needs) should include the right amounts of digestible proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins.

Each cat’s diet will differ based on its size, life stage and sometimes even breed, but quality and balance remain key when it comes to nutrition for all cats. A dull, dry coat that sheds excessively is often a sign of an inadequate diet.

HOW DOES A CAT’S HEALTH AFFECT SKIN AND HAIRAPPEARANCE?

The visible state of your cat’s coat can be affected by short-term and/or long-term stressand illness. Typically the lustre and texture can change and more shedding (usuallyexcessive) can occur. Diseases/conditions include:

Make sure you are brushing your breed as often as required, based on its hair type. Thiswill help to reduce irritation (objects stuck in coat) and shedding (in and around thehouse).

HOW REGULARLY SHOULD I BATHE MY CAT?

Age, lifestyle, hair type, health and allergies will all influence a cat’s bathing and grooming schedule, however, most healthy adult cats are meticulous groomers which means they rarely require a bath.

Older cats, especially those with arthritis often struggle to groom themselves properly. An occasional bath can help to remove odours and loose hairs. A vet will advise on how to treat a cat with skin allergies.

Only use shampoo formulated for cats. Hypoallergenic shampoo, without perfumes, is ideal. A conditioning product can also be applied. Never leave any product behind, because your cat will always groom after a bath. Remaining residues can cause harm or upset his or her stomach.

Any troubling observations should be discussed with your vet. Also, if washing does not alleviate irritation or improve and enhance the health, texture and lustre of your cat’s skin and coat, there may be an underlying problem that your vet should know about. Early treatment can make a big difference.

*Any and all content on PetlifeSA’s website, social media and other platforms are for educational purposes only and should not be viewed or used as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If your pet is experiencing any health issues, please consult a veterinarian professional immediately. Read More